Why LeBron James Is the GOAT: A Case From Our Junior Writer

Did you know that Jordan is not the GOAT? Greetings, Teachers, Parents, Judges and Fellow Students. My name is Arjun and today, I will be talking about why Lebron James is the undisputed, greatest basketball player of all time.

Defining the GOAT

First, we need to address the word GOAT. Many former NBA players have debated what defines the word GOAT or who is the GOAT. Is it strictly about statistics, or is it about championships, or is it about that clutch performance during a pivotal moment in the game, or is it about team play? That ability to make your teammates better and lead your team into championship contention.

Respect for Both Players

I do have respect for both of these players. When their respective teams reached the finals and they won the championships, both Jordan and LeBron were awarded FMVP for their team. Each and every time.

LeBron's Impact on His Teams

Speaking of finals, here is a fun fact that might be hard for Jordan fans to accept. Whenever LeBron leaves a team, that team immediately falls and becomes one of the worst teams in the league. This happened in 2010 when he left Cleveland and in 2014 when he left Miami and again when he returned to Cleveland and left in 2019.

Jordan's Finals Record vs. LeBron's Team Carrying

One of Jordan's fans most popular excuses is Jordan's perfect record in the finals. He made it to the finals 6 times and won the championship each of those times. While LeBron has made it 10 times to the finals but he has only won 4 of those times. And, this is because these teams weren't top tier and solely relied on Lebron's ability. They were ranked a higher seed because of LeBron's incredible offensive and defensive statistics while the second best scorer on the team was averaging less than 15 points per game. LeBron carried the team! In 2007, 2017, and 2018, the Cavaliers made the finals and this is all due to Lebron. When Jordan was in the same boat, his team was struggling to make the playoffs proving that scoring is only a portion of the game. An all-around player will bring a team more success.

LeBron's Longevity and Dominance

Another one of Jordan's fan excuses is LeBron's longevity - that he has been able to achieve his accomplishments and hold the all-time record for points and ranks higher than Jordan in rebounds and assists because of how long he has played the game professionally. But is this really a knock on Lebron's career? Yes, longevity is involved but longevity does not guarantee dominance of a sport and to do that for over two decades. LeBron's abilities, drive and preparation to play at such a high level against men half his age for several decades and still be a dominant force should not be a mark against him but should be celebrated, especially at his age.

Durability and Versatility

What we should also talk about is Lebron James' durability. In order to play at such a high level for such a long time, the training and discipline that Lebron has to keep his body and mind in such great shape and avoid any serious injuries that could be career ending. Lebron is also extremely versatile player as he can play any position and still succeed whereas Jordan position has strictly been shooting guard.

Efficiency vs. Team Play

Another factor that people argue comes down to Lebron and Jordan's points per game or efficiency. While Jordan has the edge on both of these statistics, if you dig further into all the statistics, LeBron has focused on winning with a different style. Often focusing on getting his teammates involved and passing the basketball towards them rather than focusing on his own scoring statistics. Therefore, becoming a better all-around team player and essential part of his team. Jordan, in comparison, was not known as great teammate. Many documentaries have show that Jordan was a demanding teammate and constantly needed to have the ball in his hands in every play and the Coach had to create plays that revolved around Jordan. LeBron has been applauded for his unselfishness nature by his teammates, coaches and staff. LeBron gives credits to his teammates in wins and takes on the burden in a tough loss.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we are comparing two different types of greatness but the debate is how we define the word GOAT. If you define GOAT at your highest peak, then one would choose Michael Jordan who has never lost in the finals and never had to go to a Game 7. However, if you define greatness as unparalleled longevity and top tier performance in all aspects for over 20 years, then LeBron is undeniably the GOAT. Thank you.